Discussion

Oaked Chardonnay assignment

I received the following in response to my "what shall I bring?" query:

"Hi, thanks. If you like, bring a bottle of Syrah or Chardonnay. We normally avoid the latter, but it was recommended for the chicken that's going on the grill (specifically an oaked one)."

Although i'd rather drink Syrah, i thought it might be fun to take on the chardonnay challenge. I , too, have avoided Chardonnay for lo, these last 10 years, so I don't have any personnal knowledge to go on. Also, the hostess is a francophile, but I'm under the impression most French Chards have less oak than CA...is that right?

Most French Chards have less "non-integrated" oak than domestic ones might be a more accurate statement. I don't know what you plan to spend, but you will find that many White Burgundy wines are oaked.

If you want to stay within the USA, I would try something like the Rochioli Chardonnay 2007; it's just made it to UK shores so I am sure it'll be widely available to you.Apple, floral, slightly spicy and some nice oaky vanilla, but not too in your face.

Thanks, both. I'm open to Chard from anywhere, in fact, I like the idea of Chard from somewhere less expected. As for White Burgundy...I'm planning to spend around $20...I kinda don't expect to have much luck in the price range.

Given that price range, the Rochioli recommended by Steve is out of reach. So are White Burgs from the more "popular" villages. But if you want a White Burg that isn't merely labeled Bourgogne, look for village wines from Givry, Rully, Mercurey (techically Cote Chalonnaise, but close). Also Saint Veran, Pouilly Fuisse, Macon-Villages.

Earrazuriz Wild Ferment Chardonnay from Chile's Casablanca Valley satifies all your criteria. Chile's not the first place that comes to mind when you think Chardonnay. The wine is rich enough to stand up to grilled foods but has the acidity required to keep things lively and cut through fat. The oak treatment is apparent but not overpowering. The flavours are surprisingly pure. It runs about C$22 up here, so should be well within your budget. And it's widely available.